5 Trees That Are Perfect for Small Spaces
Are you looking to add some greenery to your small outdoor space but aren’t sure which trees would be a good fit? Fear not, as there are many trees that are perfect for small spaces! I’ve worked with countless homeowners and gardeners who have faced this very dilemma. In this article, we’ll explore five trees that are ideal for small spaces, their unique characteristics, and how to care for them.
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
With its delicate leaves and stunning colors, the Japanese maple is a favorite among gardeners. This small deciduous tree is ideal for small spaces due to its compact size, reaching only 6-10 feet tall and wide. There are many cultivars available, ranging in colors from green to red and even purple. Japanese maples prefer partial shade and well-draining soil, making them a great option for small yards and gardens.
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia)
If you’re looking for a tree that will provide year-round interest, consider the crape myrtle. This small deciduous tree is known for its beautiful, showy blooms in the summer, followed by vibrant foliage in the fall. Crape myrtles come in a variety of sizes, with some varieties only growing 8-10 feet tall and wide. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, making them an excellent choice for small spaces.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier)
The serviceberry, also known as the Juneberry or shadbush, is a small deciduous tree that produces beautiful white flowers in the spring, followed by edible fruit in the summer. They typically reach heights of 10-15 feet tall and wide, making them a great option for smaller yards and gardens. Serviceberries prefer partial shade and well-draining soil, and they’re also tolerant of a wide range of soil types.
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
The Eastern redbud is a small deciduous tree that produces stunning pink or purple blooms in the spring, followed by heart-shaped leaves in the summer. They typically reach heights of 20-30 feet tall and wide, but there are dwarf varieties available that only grow 8-10 feet tall. Eastern redbuds prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
Dwarf Fruit Trees
If you’re looking to add some edible plants to your small outdoor space, consider planting dwarf fruit trees such as dwarf apple or dwarf cherry trees. These trees are bred specifically for their smaller size and can reach heights of only 6-8 feet tall. They’re perfect for small gardens or even in containers on balconies or patios. Dwarf fruit trees prefer full sun and well-draining soil, and they’re also easy to care for.
Interesting Facts About These Trees
- Japanese maples have been cultivated in Japan for over 300 years and are considered a symbol of grace and elegance.
- Crape myrtles are native to China and Korea but have become a beloved tree in the southern United States.
- Serviceberries are also popular among wildlife, attracting birds and other animals with their edible fruit.
- Eastern redbuds are often used as ornamental trees in gardens and parks due to their stunning spring blooms.
- Dwarf fruit trees are not only a great option for small spaces but also make it easier to harvest fruit without the need for a ladder.
Where to find out more about these:
- Japanese maple: You can find Japanese maple trees at most nurseries and garden centers in Australia. Here are a few online retailers:
- Daleys Fruit Tree Nursery: https://www.daleysfruit.com.au/Japanese-Maple-Trees-in-Australia.htm
- Fleming’s Nurseries: https://www.flemings.com.au/plant-varieties/deciduous-ornamental/japanese-maple
- Weeping cherry: Weeping cherry trees can be found at many garden centers and nurseries in Australia. Here are some online retailers:
- Bunnings: https://www.bunnings.com.au/search/products?q=weeping%20cherry%20tree
- Hello Hello Plants & Garden Supplies: https://www.thetutuguru.com.au/shop/weeping-cherry-tree-prunus-subhirtella-pendula/
- Dwarf citrus: Dwarf citrus trees can be found at most nurseries and garden centers in Australia. Here are some online retailers:
- Daleys Fruit Tree Nursery: https://www.daleysfruit.com.au/Citrus-Dwarf-Trees-in-Australia.htm
- Garden Express: https://www.gardenexpress.com.au/citrus-dwarf-trees/
- Dogwood: Dogwood trees are less common in Australia, but can be found at some specialty nurseries. Here are a few online retailers:
- Garden Express: https://www.gardenexpress.com.au/dogwood-trees/
- Kumbula Nursery: https://www.kumbulanursery.co.za/plants/cornus-controversa-variegata/
- Crabapple: Crabapple trees are readily available at most nurseries and garden centers in Australia. Here are some online retailers:
- Hello Hello Plants & Garden Supplies: https://www.thetutuguru.com.au/shop/crabapple-tree-malus-coralburst/
- Garden Express: https://www.gardenexpress.com.au/crabapple-trees/
How much does a Gardener cost?
https://homegardenguides.com/lawn/how-much-does-a-gardener-cost/
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